National Trust

National Trust: conserving natural and cultural heritage in the UK

National Trust is a registered charity in the UK dedicated to caring for places of heritage and natural interest. Its scope covers houses, buildings, gardens, coastlines and rural landscapes, with the aim of protecting them and keeping them accessible to the public. The organisation presents itself as responsible for more than 500 places to visit, making it one of the country's largest conservation institutions.

Conservation areas and types of places

The organisation structures its work around different types of spaces. These include coast and beaches, gardens and parks, historic houses and buildings, castles and forts, and countryside and woodland. This diversity reflects a broad approach that combines architectural preservation with the protection of natural environments.

Its geographical coverage extends across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with management areas ranging from Bath and Bristol to Yorkshire, including Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, the Lake District, London, Norfolk, the North East, the Midlands, Oxfordshire, the Peak District, Shropshire, Somerset, Suffolk, Surrey, Sussex, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire, among others.

Activities and experiences for visitors

National Trust offers a wide range of activities aimed at different audiences. For families, it offers days out with options suitable for all ages, such as climbing, exploring and wildlife spotting. It also has walking routes and trails that can be combined with stops at cafés and tea-rooms located on the coast, in the countryside or at historic estates.

The programme includes outdoor activities, events and experiences such as deer watching in autumn, one of the most outstanding times for wildlife spotting. Virtual visits are also organised and resources on history, nature, gardening, food and crafts are offered.

For children, there is an initiative called ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’, which offers hands-on activities and contact with nature. Weddings are also organised at some of the places it manages.

Educational and discovery programmes

The organisation runs an outreach and learning programme that includes content on history, nature and heritage. Through its website you can find articles, recipes and expert tips, as well as information about film and TV filming at its properties. Places such as those used in Jane Austen adaptations or in the series Bridgerton form part of this catalogue of locations.

The organisation also publishes a magazine for members, with seasonal editions featuring reads and inspiration about its activities.

Holiday accommodation

National Trust manages a holiday accommodation programme that includes cottages, camping, hotels and bothies and bunkhouses. The offer is organised by regions and destinations, with last-minute options and special offers. Some of these cottages have literary connections or are located near filming locations.

Membership, donations and support

The organisation's funding comes in part from members' fees and donations. There are different types of membership, such as individual, gift, life membership or the Explorer pass, which gives access to more than 500 places. Members receive a magazine and can renew or manage their account.

Ways to support financially include direct donations, planting a tree, adopting a plot, the lottery and raffle, volunteering, gifts in wills and corporate partnerships. You can also collaborate as a patron or through local supporter groups.

Online shop

The organisation has an online shop with homeware, gardening, fashion, outdoor items, food, books, stationery and children's gifts. Sales contribute to the conservation of the places it manages.

Environmental advocacy and climate action

National Trust takes an active stance on climate change. Its website highlights the threat of wildfires in the UK and mentions a fire at Dunwich Heath that affected 104 hectares. The organisation is promoting a petition for the UK Government to take urgent action to restore nature and protect against the impacts of climate change.

It also offers guidance on climate change adaptation for heritage organisations.

Structure and governance

National Trust is registered as a charity with number 205846 (HMRC Ref. X8733). Its headquarters are at Heelis, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2NA. The organisation publishes annual reports, holds annual general meetings and provides information about its governance, jobs, suppliers and privacy and accessibility policies.

Location and contact

Heelis, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2NA